Cardiopulmonary resuscitation—From the past into the future

Since the first cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) guidelines were published in 1966, periodic updates of the guidelines have been made by individual organizations all over the world. However, several important components of CPR have been determined with a lack of scientific basis. Proper hand placement on the sternum for chest compression, compression depth, and compression rate to produce optimal hemodynamic effect have yet to be investigated. Clinical trials have failed to demonstrate a survival benefit of the vasoactive drugs administered for resuscitation. Therefore, additional investigations to determine the most effective CPR method are necessary to overcome current CPR controversies. Moreover, global concern and the implementation of a plan for improving survival in communities with low survival rates as well as the introduction of internet or ubiquitous technology to resuscitation medicine can be effective strategies for improving the survival rate of cardiac arrest.